Big Chief of the Young Seminole Hunters

Joshua Guild, associate professor of history and African American studies at Princeton University (left), moderates the panel discussion with Big Chief Demond Melancon (center) and Big Chief Darryl Montana. Topics ranged from community and spirituality in the “dressing” tradition, to the passing down of artistry techniques from generation to generation. Photo by Adena Stevens

Big Chief Darryl Montana of the Yellow Pocahontas Hunters (left) and Big Chief Demond Melancon of the Young Seminole Hunters — two leaders of New Orleans’ indigenous Black Indian groups — break into spontaneous song at an April 3 reception in the CoLab gallery space in the new Lewis Arts complex at Princeton University. The chiefs’ visit to Princeton, in conjunction with an exhibition of the groups’ elaborate ceremonial suits and other artwork, included a panel discussion and classroom visit. Photo by Adena Stevens